The Albany Area Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce the winners of the 2024 Albany Under 40 Awards, a prestigious program recognizing the achievements of young professionals who are making a significant impact in our community. Hosted October 29 at the Albany Museum of Art, the sold-out event honored emerging leaders from various fields who exemplify dedication, innovation and leadership in the Albany area.

“Recognizing the achievements of young professionals through the Albany Under 40 Awards highlights the vital role that talent and a dedicated workforce play in driving economic growth and business success,” said Barbara Rivera Holmes, president and CEO of the Albany Area Chamber, the region’s most dynamic business organization. “The Albany Area is rich with talent across business sectors, and these emerging leaders exemplify the dedication, innovation and leadership that fuel our community’s prosperity.”

The selection process for the Albany Under 40 Awards was rigorous and thorough. Each applicant was evaluated by a panel of industry leaders who assessed candidates on criteria including professional achievements, community involvement and demonstrated leadership. The judging process highlighted individuals who have not only excelled in their careers but have also made meaningful contributions to the Albany community. With nominations spanning multiple industries, the category finalists represent the diverse talents and dedication within our region.

“This year’s Albany Under 40 category finalists and winners have demonstrated excellence across diverse industries,” said Jay Houston, the Chamber’s director of communications and talent initiatives. “Each of these young professionals is committed to advancing their field, uplifting our community and setting a powerful example for future generations. We’re thrilled to champion them on their journey.”

The Albany Under 40 Awards, a program within the Chamber’s Talent Catalyst Division, featured category winners in multiple categories, each selected from a competitive pool of applicants and, later, finalists. The Chamber congratulates the following individuals:

• Arts & Entertainment, Culinary Arts, Events, Tourism & Hospitality
Tavaris Wilson, Albany State University
As an Assistant Professor of Theatre and Director of Theatre at Albany State University,
Wilson has brought national recognition to the university by hosting the Kennedy Center
American College Theatre Festival-Region IV, the first Historically Black College and
University (HBCU) to do so. His dedication to the arts and education has created
transformative opportunities for students and the community.

• Civics, Defense, Government & Public Affairs
Orson Burton Jr., City of Albany
As the public service manager for the city of Albany’s Department of Community and
Economic Development, Burton leads initiatives such as the HOME ARP program,
providing affordable housing to underserved residents. Recently accepted into the
Leadership Georgia Class of 2025, he is committed to expanding his impact and
empowering youth through his involvement with the 100 Black Men of Southwest
Georgia.

• Financial & Insurance Services
Ryan Watson, Synovus
Watson, a vice president and retail market leader at Synovus, is recognized for his
innovative contributions to banking and community service, including partnerships with
organizations such as Helping Hands Ending Hunger and The Hope Center.

• Journalism, Marketing & Public Relations
Corey Holman, Grace Life Marketing
Holman, owner of Grace Life Marketing, is a driving force in community empowerment.
Through the Grace Life Scholarship Giveaway, he supports students’ educational
journeys, and his board roles with organizations including Educate the Nations amplify
his commitment to Albany’s future.

• Manufacturing, Service Industries, Energy & Architecture
Mike Gonzalez, Pro Outdoor
As president of Pro Outdoor, Gonzalez combines industry leadership with community
engagement, participating in local service initiatives and contributing to storm relief and
food drives.

• Medicine & Health Care
Dr. Khaled Ajib, Albany Urology Clinic
Dr. Ajib, a clinical associate professor at Augusta University’s Albany-based Southwest
Georgia campus of the Medical College of Georgia, leads the Prostate Cancer Center of
Excellence, delivering advanced care to the Albany Area. His research and clinical work in
minimally invasive urology are helping shape the region’s healthcare landscape.

• Nonprofit Service
King Randall, The X For Boys & Life Preparatory School for Boys
Founder of South Georgia’s first free, all-boys boarding school, Randall is empowering
young men through practical trades and life skills. His community-focused campaigns,
including #DoSomething, inspire change and resilience.

Aunquarius Brown-Reed, SOWEGA Rising
As director of community development at SOWEGA Rising, Brown-Reed leads initiatives
in renewable energy, environmental sustainability and social justice, making a lasting
impact in Southwest Georgia.

• Youth & Education
Kristen Hill, Albany State University
A nursing instructor with more than 13 years of experience, Hill has driven innovation in
nursing education, achieving a 100 percent NCLEX pass rate and leading initiatives such
as the Digication ePortfolio program.

This celebration of Albany’s future leaders was made possible by the support of the Albany Under 40 sponsors: Albany Area Primary Healthcare, Dougherty County, the Albany Museum of Art, Deerfield Windsor School, Eagle Cleaners and Mauldin & Jenkins.

The 2024 Albany Under 40 Young Professional of the Year will be selected from among the category winners, and announced at the Albany Area Chamber’s 125th annual meeting in the spring of 2025.